Green Daily

• Washing machines showed the most improvement, being 63% more efficient than their 2000 counterparts.
• Refrigerators, once the most energy-guzzling appliance in the home, boasted a 30% increase in efficiency.
  
• Dishwashers had a similar improvement, consuming 29% less energy.

The savings add up to the equivalent of offsetting over 698 million gallons of gasoline use. To put this in perspective, considering that in 2007, Americans used 140.2 billion gallons, these savings offset nearly five years of use during the seven year period.

Still, it is important to point out that the "efficiency paradox" is still in effect. Americans and citizens in every developed country have been using their energy savings to purchase bigger or more vehicles and appliances, using more energy overall.

Supposedly, improved designs such as front-loading washing machines, and soil sensors in dishwashers that allow more water to be reused, are often behind such energy and water savings.

For tips to choosing the greenest deal, ConsumerReports.org's blog Home and Garden listed the following:

• Choose a smaller model of refrigerator, and walk to your local grocer or farmer's market more often.
  
• Avoid compact models like bar fridges and dorm room units.
• Opt out of flashy features like ice or water dispensers, LCD screens, extra lights, etc.
• Similar sized appliances might have a very different cost to operate over time. Use the energy guides to help you decide.

Of course, should you decide to upgrade, make sure that you recycle your old unit through proper channels. Often there are local programs that will haul away your old appliances either for free or for a nominal fee. Don't forget to check out our guide on when to replace your appliances based on age.